5 Best Safaris in Uganda
Planning for a holiday in Africa but wondering about which place to visit? A safari in Uganda offers tourists with various experiences ranging from gorilla trekking to other adventures like classic wildlife game viewing and cultural interaction experiences.
1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
A gorilla tracking safari to Bwindi is one of the must do activities that can be taken by travelers to Uganda. No wonder today, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the number on visited tourist destination in Uganda. This park offers the lifetime opportunity to watch the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. The mountain gorillas are among the biggest of all apes! They can be found only in three countries in the world; Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic republic of Congo. Bwindi Impenetrable Forests hosts nearly half of the total population of the mountain gorillas. For over 2 decades, Bwindi National Park is the best site to track down the family of gorillas.
The tracking experience is challenging with a lot of excitement as you come across other primates like monkeys while also spotting different bird species.The less known Mgahinga National Park is another amazing place to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda. Despite gorilla tracking, Mgahinga also offers the chance of seeing the golden monkeys within the park, hiking the volcanic mountains, and enjoying the scenic beauty of both Uganda and Rwanda.
2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
Tracking the wild and noisy chimpanzees of Kibale National Park also gives the best safari experience for Uganda travelers. Located in Western Uganda, Kibale is one of the best places on the African continent to see the chimpanzees. The park has the highest density of chimpanzees and the chimpanzee tracking experience is incomparable to other destination in the world. A chimpanzee tracking safari is one of the exciting safaris that you will not want to miss. Come and track the human-like animal in this forest and have a chance to see the closest living relative of human being that has not evolved. Apart from chimpanzees the park also hosts 13 other primates species that include monkeys, pottos, galagos etc.
3. A Wildlife Safari
A game viewing safari in various savanna national parks offers the amazing experience of enjoying wild game on which you will see the traditional wild animals of Africa. A game drive is one of the best activities that offer you the advantage of seeing the wild games in their natural habitats. Visiting the Savannah National Parks of Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo and Kidepo is a better option to view wild game such as elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, various tribes of antelopes etc. Enrich your experience while on your safari visit by seeing the Pride of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, spotted hyenas, herd of buffaloes, giraffes among other. Feel free to enjoy a family safari on one of the wildlife safaris in Uganda.
4. Cultural Safaris
Uganda is also a culturally diverse destination with over 65 tribes that have got impressive heritage depicted in their unique dances and performances, arts and crafts, ceremonies and festivities and norms and customs. The Imbalu circumcision ceremony for example among the Bagisu is a memorable cultural encounter that can make your stay in Uganda really amazing.
5. Rwenzori Mountain Trekking
The mythical mountains of the moon – the Rwenzoris offers a great hiking experience on the African continent. Located in western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo border, the Rwenzoris rise to 5,109m. The central circuit trail takes you up to the equatorial snow peaks, the third highest point in Africa. A hike takes you through various vegetation zones moorland, bamboo and rich, moist montane forest. A typical hiking trip takes nine- to twelve-day tour in Uganda!
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Go White Water Rafting in Uganda
Jinja town is one of the traditional districts in Uganda and before the Europeans came to the town it was first prominently known as the small fishing village that was located in banks of longest River Nile and with the arrival of the British colonial rule in 1906, the town started to grow very fast. At first as trading Centre as well as river crossing area and later it was turned to an industrial town of Uganda. Currently Jinja which is well known as adventure district of Uganda is one of the interesting historical districts in Uganda endowed with different natural and artificial attraction pulling tourists to book safaris to Uganda.
In the mid-19thcentury Jinja town had grown very fast and occupies by different people such as the Indians, as well as Africans, and European. The construction of the Owen Falls dam led to generation of hydro-electricity and this uplifted the statutes of the town into an industrial city in Uganda and it attracted foreigners to take safaris in Uganda to identify investment opportunities.Bad news came during the political crises of the 1970s during the regime of President Amin who decided to push all the Indians who were running the industries in Jinja. This greatly affected the town and hard to pull its development down but today the only town visitors should yarn to visit when on their Uganda adventure safaris is Jinja.
Jinja town is where the source of the longest river in the world is located and also visitors interested in taking a tour to this town has got an opportunity to participate in white water rafting on the Nile.Jinja is point where the rapids stretch up in the Nile and therefore visitors to this place can enjoy spectacular places in the whole of Africa when participating white –water rafting. Rafting in this place is very intense but safety is guaranteed to tourists when carrying out the activity as the team of expert guides have to give you company through the experience. Always rafting trips are followed by a rescue fleet so that for any visitors who find it unbearable can retreat.
Uganda safaris destination of Jinja offers travelers who are seeking adventure experience to enjoy their safaris in the source on the Nile in Jinja town .The adventurous town is blessed with the worldwide best organizers of the rafting activities including Adrift who were among the first people to invest in the adrenaline services and market their products to travelers on Uganda safaris.
Travelers who are non-experts in adventurous activities like rafting in the standard rapid falls are also catered for because there are less extreme options where such travelers can also enjoy and get an interesting wonderful experience and this option even caters for a family float trip.
In addition victors can also have wonderful experience in white water by participating in the adventurous activities like Kayaking. The memorable experience here starts from training course offered to visitors as well as guided trip which is done through the interesting but scaring raging rapids.Besides that visitors on their Uganda safari can also get involved in boat cruises and this means Jinja is really an adventurous district so for any visitor looking for destination to enjoy adventurous activities, he or she confirm safari to Uganda the pearl of Africa.
Read MoreBuganda Sacred Sites Offering Tourism Opportunities
Since ancient times, sacred sites have had a mysterious allure for billions of people around the world. Legends and contemporary reports tell of extraordinary experiences people have had while visiting these places. Different sacred sites have the power to heal diseases, enlighten the mind and inspire the heart.
According to Martin Gray an Anthropologist spent thirty years studying and photographing hundreds of sacred sites in more than one hundred and twenty-five countries. After his study he was able to discuss the mythology and history of sacred sites and presents a fascinating explanation of the miraculous phenomena that occur at them.
As people continued to learn and know more about the sacred sites, many sacred sites have been identified as places of tourism interest in different countries across the world. For example the Kasubi tombs in uganda, sezibwa falls, Roman Catholics in Uganda (St. Mary’s Cathedral Rubaga Cathedral), Bahai temple, Namugongo shrines,Ssese Island Sacred sites at both at Nanziri falls (Bukasa ) and Bubeke famouse for Wanema historical shirine plus many others.However,Roasted coffee beans wrapped in dry banana fibres, varying sizes of baskets, gourds and spears with unique shapes are the commonest features in the sacred shrines of Ssese islands.
The Nanziri falls
This is an hour’s twisty trek through grassland and thick forest to the first sacred site en-route to Nanziri falls and the Nanziri cave. Tourists have to keep quiet and remove shoes as they approach a rock shaped like a chair, which is believed to be the guard’s seat. It is here that the guide briefs visitors on dos and don’ts as well as the sacrifices including roasted coffee beans, coins or meat to appease the spirits and Nanziri, the god of the waterfalls. The remains of burnt firewood is evidence of sacrifices offered at this site.
Visitors also move down to the Nanziri cave with various chambers believed to be rooms from where more sacrifices are made and prayers for blessings and fortunes including fertility, wealth, protection, long life, safety while travelling on water and heavy catches of fish, are sought. The waterfalls cascade over a 40-feet high rock into a shallow pool in which people seeking blessings and healings from various ailments swim oblivious of anyone looking at them. The guide insists that there is no known river feeding the falls but a spring that never dries and is powered by Nanziri, the god of this site, Kibuuka the god of war and Mukasa, the god of the lake.
Wanema’s shrine
This is found on the same island about four kilometres away at Bubeke.The palace characterised by grass-thatched houses and a well-maintained reed fence which is maintained by elderly women, who are armed with a wealth of information about its history, cultural and importance to the islanders and Buganda kingdom. Taking photos is by luck on this site because even camera shutters might not open after all. Various rituals are performed, sacrifices made and prayers offered by hundreds of people who are seeking fortunes. The attendants explain that only prayers for healing are encouraged as long as one believes in what they are seeking. Those whose prayers are answered return voluntarily with gifts of appreciation like goats, money and chicken. On another island called Bugembe is a popularly visited site, which is treated with awe. A well-maintained compound with grass-thatched houses, where rituals are performed for fortunes. According to the custodians, it is famous for giving wealth, fertility to women and partners to the singles. For those looking for a unique cultural tour in Africa, Uganda is your place to be.
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Choosing the Right Car for Hire in Uganda
So you’ve decided to do a self drive in Uganda for your next holiday – congrats! You’ve got the trip of a lifetime ahead of you. The next question, of course, is what kind of car you should hire. The answer to that will depend on a few key things. Where exactly are you going to self drive Uganda? How many people are coming along for the ride? What’s your budget?
We’ve put together some important points to consider when deciding what type of car you need to hire for yourself drive in Uganda.
Think about the kind of terrain you’ll be driving through
The first question you need to ask yourself is whether you need a 4×4 or any other kind of car as long as it is in good condition. This will depend on where yourself drive in Uganda or East Africa is going to take you.
For the most part, Uganda’s main roads are in very good condition apart from those leading to the major national parks and other tourist attractions of importance. Most of the time, it’s entirely advisable to self drive yourself in Uganda in a 4×4 vehicle. If you plan on sticking to main motorways and visiting relatively built-up areas, you’ll be fine with just any other vehicle like sedan. If you’re unsure, ask campsites, guesthouses and adventure activity operators what the roads are like in the area when you’re making reservations but your car renting company can as well provide such important information to you. Remember, local people on the ground can give you the most accurate and up to date info.
If you plan on going off the beaten track, however, you should consider getting a 4×4. There’s nothing worse than being unable to do a little exploring because your car can’t handle the roads. If you’re planning on visiting areas like Bwindi impenetrable forest national park, Queen Elizabeth or Murchison falls national park, hiring a 4×4 is advisable. If you’re planning to self drive Uganda in summer, make sure that your hired car comes with air conditioning.
The Ugandan sun is a glorious thing. In fact, it’s probably one of the reasons you’ve chosen to holiday here in the first place. However, during long drives on hot summer’s days, you’ll be infinitely more comfortable if your car has air conditioning.
Opt for the most fuel-efficient car
On a self drive in Uganda, fuel costs are going to be one of your biggest expenses. Keep this in mind when picking a hire car; a fuel-efficient vehicle can save you a chunk of cash. Your car rental company will be able to give you an estimate of each car’s fuel consumption per kilometer, which you can then use to work out how much you need to budget for fuel.
How many people are traveling?
Obviously, the number of people traveling will affect what kind of car you need. Don’t forget to think about everyone’s luggage, too. If the whole family’s coming along, you’ll need something with a sizeable trunk. It’s unsafe – not to mention uncomfortable – to squash both kids and bags on the backseat.
Consider hiring a camping-equipped vehicle.
If you’re after adventure and planning on camping on yourself drive in Uganda, consider hiring a camping-equipped 4×4. Camping-equipped vehicles come complete with rooftop tents, a fridge, bedding, kitchenware, chairs, a gas cooker and all the other bits and bobs you need to make your vehicle your ‘home on wheels’. All such vehicles are readily available for giving out at Uganda car rental at relatively cheap prices.
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7 Best Places to Visit in Western Uganda
The western region consists several districts including Mbarara, Bushenyi, Kasese, Kiruhura, Kabarole, Rubirizi, Mitooma among others. When it comes to tourism, western Uganda out competes other regions due to its tourist attractions and activities that offer memorable experience.
A combination of beautiful landscape, rivers, lakes, variety of bird and primate species and many other wild animals offer you a fascinating experience when you visit western Uganda.
Western Uganda attracts many tourists because of its major tourist destination below:
Queen Elizabeth National Park
It is located in western Uganda spanning the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi and Rukungiri, extending from Lake Edward and Lake George separated by Kazinga channel. It is located along Mpondwe road in Rubirizi district and Uganda’s second largest National park covering a land of 1978 square kilometers.
Queen Elizabeth National park is the most popular destination well known for its concentration of wild animals, bird species and primate species. The activities in Queen Elizabeth National park include game drives in the Kasenyi sector, Mweya peninsular, Katwe salt mines, Bunyaruguru Crater Lake, Munyanyanga Crater Lake, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge, nature walks, cultural encounters to Kikorongo community village, leopard village, the Equator, launch trips on Kazinga channel.
Queen Elizabeth National park shelters over 600 bird species and more than 95 mammal species including elephants, lions, leopards, warthogs, antelopes, buffaloes, water bucks, bush bucks, chimpanzees, monkey species, hippos, Uganda kobs, Elands, Topis, tree climbing lions which are only found in Ishasha sector, birds like whited winded, swamp nightjar, Africa fish eagle, African kingfisher, white egrets, African morning dove, weaver birds among others. There are chimpanzees in Kyambura gorge in Maramagambo forest.
All these wild animals can be viewed during day and night game drives, boat cruise on Kazinga channel, guided nature walks, birding and cultural tours.
Queen Elizabeth National park has beautiful accommodations which exceptional and wonderful services where visitors spend their time when they visit the park including; Mweya safari lodge, Queen Elizabeth bush lodge, Buffalo safari lodge, Ihamba lake side lodge, Kyambura game lodge, park view lodge, Enganzi lodge, Katara lodge among others.
Kibale Forest National Park
It is located in western Uganda in Kabarole district characterized of lowland, montane and rain forest type of forests. Kibale National park is the most popular destination for chimpanzee trekking, however there other areas where chimpanzee trekking is done including Budongo forest in Murchison Falls National park, Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth National park, Toro Semuliki game reserve in the west and Kalinzu forest close to Queen Elizabeth National park but Kibale National park is the leading chimpanzee destination with over 1500 chimpanzees that consist of habituated and non-habituated chimpanzees. Besides chimpanzees, Kibale National park also hosts several wild animals like forest elephants, warthogs, bush pigs, duikers, African buffaloes among others, then monkey species like black and white colubus, olive baboons, blue tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, Red tailed, L’Hoests monkeys among others.
Kibale National park also hosts over 325 birds species which include yellow potted nicator, African King Fisher, weaver birds, African grey parrot, pigeons, little greenbul and so on which can be viewed Kibale forest and others in Bigodi swamp sanctuary during nature walks.
Kibale National park has several accommodations including crater, safari lodge, Kyaninga lodge, Ndali lodge, primate lodge, chimpanzee safari lodge, Isunga lodge, Rweteera safari park among others which offer fascinating services.
Bwindi impenetrable National Park
Bwindi impenetrable National park is situated in south western Uganda in the district of Kanungu covering an area of 321 square kilometers. It is characterized with a thick tropical rain forest which shelters mountain gorillas which are Uganda’s major tourist attractions.
Bwindi impenetrable National park is well known destination for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda done in 4 sectors; Buhoma sector in the north, Ruhija sector in the east, Rushaga and Nkuringo sector in the southern part of the park.
Bwindi impenetrable National park consists of 18 habituated gorilla families that are being trekked. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable National park is the major tourist activity in western Uganda and in Uganda generally due to its highest population of mountain gorillas. Bwindi impenetrable National park shelters over 449 mountain gorillas which are half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas which attracts the biggest number of tourists from all parts of the world.
Mountain gorillas are endangered primate species that are found in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo in the whole world. A trip to western Uganda offers you the breath taking and memorable experience of gorilla trekking that you will not encounter anywhere else in Uganda. Gorilla trekking starts from the park headquarters with briefing in the morning guided by the ranger guides then they lead you to the forest for trekking, depending on how far the gorillas are, trekking may take 1-8 hours though not predictable.
Trekkers are advised to go with their trekking gears like rain jacket, trousers, long shirts and blouses, hiking boots, insect repellant, hut to protect from direct sun and rain, warm sweater and they should be above 15 years.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National park is located in Kiruhura district few kilometers from Mbarara city. Lake Mburo National park was formerly a hunting area but later gazette in to National park in 1963.
There are tourist activities done in Lake Mburo National park which attract travelers include game drives both day and night game drives, boat trips, nature walks, horse riding, fishing among others.
The park is the smallest savannah National park with a variety of animals like Antelopes, Zebras, Giraffes, hyenas, warthog, Eland, Uganda kob, impalas, Jackal and many others with over 300 bird species that attract travelers.
The park also has a variety of accommodations including Mihingo lodge, Arcadia lodge, Mburo safari lodge, Mantana tented camp, Rwakobo rock resort, Rwonyo rest camp and so on.
Mountain Rwenzori National Park
Mountain Rwenzori National park is located in western Uganda situated within the mountains of the moon in the East African Rift valley bordering Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain Rwenzori is the third highest mountain In Africa with 5,109 meters high and its highest peak Margherita which is snowcapped.
Rwenzori National park and also a conservation area of the mountain is a UNESCO heritage that covers of 995 square kilometers shared by the districts of Kabarole, Bundibigyo and Kasese. It can be accessed via Fort Portal Kasese road to Rwenzori National park for 5-6 hours.
Rwenzori National park consists of several activities like mountaineering which is the major activity that attracts a number of travelers that come from different countries to hike mountain Rwenzori. Over 7500 travelers each year visit mountain Rwenzori especially to the highest peak of mount Stanley Margherita.
There is also hiking and nature walks done around Lake Mahooma and Buraro chimpanzee forest, Bundibugyo area through Bwamba pass where you come across wild animals like forest elephants, giant forest hog, duikers, leopards though rarely seen, the three horned chameleon which is only found in Rwenzori because it only stays in places which are 3000 meters above sea level, it is always fascinating on sighting it. Cultural encounters with the Bakonzo people and learn more about their cultures, daily activities, traditional dances, storytelling among others, the visitors also enjoy birding in Rwenzori National park with over 217 bird species that can be traced in the montane forests on the slopes of mountain Rwenzori.
Semuliki National Park
Semuliki National park is located in Bwamba County in Bundibugyo district in western Uganda on the border with Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of Uganda’s newest National park and second last smallest National park covering an area of 220 square kilometers.
Semuliki National park has a variety of plant and animal species with ever green vegetation for game viewing activities, the park has over 40 mammal species and 600 bird species mostly enjoyed by birders.
Semuliki National park consists of wild animals including leopards, elephants, civets, hippos, forest buffaloes, primate species like chimpanzees, monkey species like olive baboons, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, de brazzas monkeys, grey cheeked mangabeys, black and white among others.
Semuliki National park has variety of activities that travelers enjoy while on your safari to western Uganda including game drives which are done in the savannah grasslands of the park which offers views of wild animals like elephants, leopards, bush pigs, warthogs, birds and so on, then the sempaya hot springs which is the most popular tourist attraction in Semuliki National park. It is also said a safari to Semuliki National park with a visit to sempaya hot springs is incomplete, the hot water at sempaya hot spring is more than 100 degrees Celsius that is boil eggs until they are ready. Hiking and trails through the red monkey trail where you spot the monkeys buffaloes, elephants on the river and kirimia trail where you see a variety of bird species.
Cultural encounters to the Bambuti community where you learn more about their life style as the people of the forest, hand craft making, enjoy their music and dances and the birding at sempaya and Ntandi sites which offer excellent views of the white crested horn bill, pipping horn bill, yellowed throated nicator, great shoe bill among others. Semuliki National can be accessed via the shortest distance from Kampala Fort Portal via Mubende for 4-5 driving hours. It can be accessed via Kampala Masaka Mbarara Kasese Fort Portal for 7-8 hours which is quite long.
Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi is located in western Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale districts and close to border with Rwanda. It is also referred to as a bird paradise where it derived its name Lake Bunyonyi meaning a lake of small birds in the native language. It is the second deepest Lake in Africa.
Lake Bunyonyi is close to Kabale town in south western Uganda, it is about 6-7 hours drive from Kampala to Kabale and around more 8km from Kabale to Lake Bunyonyi on your way to Bwindi forest.
Lake Bunyonyi is also known to be with over 29 islands with 5 major ones that include Bushara island, Akampena (punishment) island, Kahungye island, Bwama and Njuyeera (sharp’s) island and Bucuranuka (upside down) island and each island has its history attached to it for example the punishment island is where the girls who got pregnant before marriage were thrown to die.
There are several activities at Lake Bunyonyi while on your safari to western Uganda and after hectic activities like gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable like canoeing and visit the different islands to see wild animals, birds, swimming since the lake is bilharzia free, relaxing at the beach, visiting the batwa village among others which offers travelers with experience of breath taking nature of Lake Bunyonyi.
Western Uganda is naturally blessed with exceptional tourist attractions worthy visiting like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi impenetrable forest, Kibale National Park, Mountain Rwenzori National park, Semuliki National parks, Lake Bunyonyi and many more that attract a number of travelers to Uganda each year which offers remarkable experience.
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Safari Planning Tips For Busy Moms Touring Uganda
Ahhh, celebrating or partying during your holidays!…… The Thanksgiving turkey comes out of the oven golden brown, with an enticing aroma that fills the entire house. All the party members are in their best moods, relaxing in pristine condition and not a single piece in the set is missing on your Uganda Safari! The family is gathered for holiday pictures, the children are poised perfectly; hands to themselves, not a hair out of place and their smiles are shining brightly for the camera. Then just as the photographer is about to capture the shot… you wake up!
Let’s be realistic ladies
Without proper planning, the holidays are anything but a holiday. Just look at the list of things that need to be done: Shopping, cooking, cleaning, decorating, sending holiday mail, the list goes on and on.
Let me clue you all in on a few key questions that you should ask yourself in order to have a holiday season free of stress and worry, and instead filled with fun and laughter:
What types of holiday celebrations do you want?
For example: Do you want to have an immediate family vacation only holiday affair or an extravaganza including immediate and extended family plus a few friends? Once you’ve thought everything through and decided on the type of holiday gathering you would like, you can then start making your plans.
In Uganda, there are various holiday types that include gorilla safaris, game viewing trips – best adventures for young children, cultural tours, chimpanzee watching and zoo tours at the Uganda Wildlife Education Center in Entebbe, one of the best towns to stay in Uganda duding your holiday!
If you are ready to get a head start on organizing yourself, your family and your holiday check lists, then keep reading:
Holiday Cards:
Start early! I use a holiday card list that I derive from saving names and addresses from holiday cards my family has received in past years. I created a simple, computerized list that is easy to edit and print onto address labels. Be sure to stock up on stamps so that when you have your cards signed, stuffed and addressed you can affix a stamp to them and make one, simple trip to the Post Office.
Holiday Gifts:
There’s nothing like getting a HUGE credit card bill in the mail at the start of the New Year. Many of us tend to want to be generous when shopping for holiday gifts. While your generosity will be appreciated at gift giving time, keep in mind that it is very easy to succumb to “impulse buying” and go all out on your holiday shopping. While your intentions may be good, your pocketbook may be singing a different song. Set a budget and stick to it – your bank account will thank you for it after the start of the New Year.
Wrap it up:
Wrap your gifts and place nametags on them immediately after you bring them home, then store the gifts in a secure spot. This will cut down on those late night wrapping sessions that I am sure we ALL have experienced a few times, if not every year.
Baking & cooking:
If you will be cooking during the holidays, it is important to plan your meals ahead of time. Be sure to stock up ahead of time on all the necessary non-perishable baking ingredients such as flour, sugar and spices. Create a list of your holiday menus and a list of the ingredients you will need to prepare each of those meals. Also, try to think of a few dishes that can be prepared ahead of time and then frozen as an extra timesaving measure
Delegate:
This is one of my favorite tips. Be sure to enlist the help of your family or friends. Sit down and discuss what needs to be done then ask for volunteers. If no hands are raised, simply assign small tasks to each of them. Whether it is arranging for a babysitter so that you can escape for a child free day of shopping, passing the shopping list onto another family member or friend so that they can pick up the items for you, or letting the children decorate your home. Be sure to get the whole family involved in the holiday preparations so that you will not be overwhelmed.
Enjoy:
Whatever you decide to do, remember to relax and enjoy yourself. You and your family will have much fonder memories of this holiday season if you are not spending it pulling your hair out.
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Holiday Cruise in Uganda
Though this kind of tour is not highly carried out in Uganda and East Africa as a whole, it has of recent gained some momentum in Uganda due to the fact that this country has numerous water bodies surrounding most of the national parks. Rolling hills covered in velvety green jungle are the prelude to soaring volcanoes and shimmering tropical lakes in this beautiful pearl of Africa.
Until you experience for yourself the world-class style that distinguishes every cruising boat on all Ugandan water bodies, you can only imagine the taste of perfectly built cruise boat. Until you experience the pleasure of spending a memorable day in a water fall, then returning to a boat where all the comforts and conveniences you could wish for await you, it will remain just a dream. Come live the Celebrity experience and allow Celebrity to exceed your expectations
Summer is on the way…
The highlight of any visit to Uganda is an encounter with the breathtaking mountain gorillas that inhabit the remote forests, whilst the lively town of Kampala is amongst Africa’s friendliest cities to visitors.
Mountain gorillas hide in the thick forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and sighting them through the trees is something never to be forgotten. You’ll track family groups of these huge primates on foot and get so close you’ll be able to hear their breathing (and your heart hammering!). But keep an eye out for the other 10 species of primate that live here, including chimpanzees, as well as giant forest hogs, leopards and the incredible variety of bird life.
Kibale National Park is home to an amazing 13 different species of primate and the rain forests here are rich and beautiful. You might spot chimpanzees and red colobus monkeys as well as small forest elephants during the day. On a nighttime walk seek out bush babies and the slow moving potto.
Lesser known, though no less beautiful, is the Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering game drives and boats cruises with opportunities to spot elephants, hippos, leopard and lions. Lake Mburo National Park is a huge area of wetlands, swamps and lakes that are home to an astonishing variety of birdlife.
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Discover Uganda’s Crater Lakes
Have you ever thought of visiting Uganda? Uganda is one of the best outdoor places to visit on the African continent and a Uganda safari never disappoints. The erupted craters are simply breathtaking places to visit, offer a fantastic hiking experience near Fort Portal in Western Uganda which will most definitely take you for the renown “Top of the World Hike” that introduce you to several crater lakes, through villages and tea plantations – you have the beauty of the crater lakes before you and the tallest African Mountain range, the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon in the distance, simply an incredible and beautiful combination to the beholder.
The historical hole lakes were framed rather later in the light of antiquated volcanic movement in Uganda – an insignificant 8 to 10,000 years prior – however you see them as quiet, beautiful lakes today – when they blasted they brought on colossal harm in their opportunity covering a region bigger than Mount Vesuvius did at Pompeii – in the instance of the Ugandan Explosion Craters – they decreased Lake Edward to a poisonous mess. Fire and brimstone still ejected from the aforementioned blast cavities as of late as 2000 Bc while the Pyramids in Egypt were being assembled.
Eruption Craters did not fabricate cones as Volcanoes do – they basically blew fiery debris and shake far and wide – today there are the aforementioned incredible delightful lakes-, some of which still have a certain sulphur smell in their water. Some offer incredible places for swimming, viewpoints and nature trails that one can climb encompassed by monkeys, tropical fledglings, and wonderful sights.
At the time you are looking down one of Uganda’s cavity lakes – encircled via fields, green woodland, ranches – one doesn’t acknowledge that the aforementioned wonderful lakes were places out of which the earth blasted forward in a most savage ways.
Where are the ancient Crater Lakes located?
- Katwe Crater Lakes – Queen Elizabeth Park:
This renown crater is centrally situated north of the Mweya Peninsula and is the highest point of the park. You will experience a fantastic scenic Crater Drive – 27 kilometer where you see the beautiful crater lakes on your journey. The wildlife along the route isn’t soo much, though Buffaloes and Elephants can be frequently seen. Be sure not to miss Lake Kitagata – the lake is fed by a salty hot springs – no appeal to wildlife but beautiful to behold. Along this route you have some beautiful panoramic views of the Western Rift Valley and its escarpments, the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon, Lake George, Lake Edward and the natural Kazinga Channel. Along this route you have the opportunity to visit Lake Katwe and its ancient salt works where you can take a tour that will benefit as well as tour the local community.
- Bunyaraguru Craters near – Queen Elizabeth Park: Situated along the Kichwamba escarpment of the Western Rift near Queen Elizabeth Park. Lake Nkugute is a beautiful crater lake that is visible from the Mbarara Kasese road, however there about 20 crater lakes found here and also many dry craters. There are also viewpoints where you can see the Kichwamba Rift valley and also Queen Elizabeth Park.
- Ndali – Kasenda Craters – Fort Portal and Kibale Forest: Unlike inside of Queen Elizabeth Park – the crater lakes here could be investigated by walking –there are numerous treks that you can take here – the “Top of the World” gives one incredible perspectives of the crater lakes here, the Rwenzori Mountains, Tea Plantations, Kibale Rainforest Jungle, Lake George and the Kichwamba ledge of the Western Rift Valley. There are numerous treks that you can bring with an aide from some hours to a throughout the very beginning. The Kasenda Craters are an ideal add onto a visit to Kibale Forest and its Primates – you can likewise stay at U-Market Lodging for example Ndali Lodge and plan hotel for example Cvk Lakeside Resort – both disregarding a crater lake inside straightforward arrive at of different treks along the Kasenda Crater Lakes.
- Fort Portal Craters near Fort Portal: The Fort Portal Crater Field is the most modest around those in Western Uganda yet there is a gem around them and that is Lake Kyaninga and provided that you have a couple of dollars to extra there is the selective up-business Kyaninga Lodge – log lodge structures on an edge neglecting the Lake Kyaninga Crater Lake and an amazing perspective of the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon. Basically a delightful and tranquil place with more than enough treks of the adjacent territory.
- The Crater Lakes are places to put on your must do record for your visit to Uganda – the excellence of the aforementioned pit lakes are not something to be missed in Uganda – the are a pleasure to view, incredible landscape and yet furnish extraordinary swimming, sailing and some angling chances
Visiting the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the best national parks in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. Located in South Western Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the four conservation areas protecting the endangered mountain gorillas. Gazetted in the 1990s, the park is host to half of the total remaining population of the mountain gorillas. The park provides a thrilling experience of gorilla trekking; a wonderful journey to see the endangered gorillas in the wild. The trek leads you through undulating hills and small-scale farmlands. It provides a memorable experience when you spend time in the jungle viewing varieties of primates, birds and the giant mountain gorillas.
One of the quintessential Uganda experiences is tracking the giant mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and nothing quite prepares you for the first glimpse of black fuzz amidst the dense foliage. The adrenaline kicks in when you’re up close to the imposing figure of a silverback pounding its chest and it’s all very Dian Fossey-like when curious babies peek through leaves and twist, turn and somersault for your entertainment. Gorilla permits will set you back a hefty US$500 but don’t think twice about forking out for this genuine once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Bwindi being a tropical rain forest will also provide an amazing experience to you all nature lovers.
Keep in mind that a portion of the fee goes to the park and gorilla conservation initiatives, helping to ensure these giant mountain gorillas survive. Also experience the beautiful and hospitality of the local community who showcase their culture.
Planning a Visit Bwindi for gorilla trekking? Here are some of themust know things that you should note;
- In order to track the mountain gorillas, one need to secure gorilla permits. It is advisable to book your gorilla permits at least 3 months before the tour desired tracking date. Remember gorilla permits are available year-round but do sell out fast during the peak season. Many travelers book their permits a year in advance and some even reserve them 2 years before.
- If you are looking to smooth travel experience, it is advisable to book your trip through a tour operator or travel agency. There are several companies that specialize in organizing gorilla safaris in Uganda and the neighboring countries of Rwanda and Congo (former Zaire). Some of the recommended tour operators include Go Gorilla Trekking, Gorilla Expeditions, Budget Gorilla Safaris and more.
- When tracking the mountain gorillas, always follow the steps outlined by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, ORTPN or Virunga National Park. These rules are aimed at protecting the mountain gorillas and as well guide the experience of watching the mountain gorillas (Gorilla Tourism) so that it can be a win-win situation.
- Remember children below 14 years are not allowed to track the mountain gorillas.
Exploring Western Uganda: 5 Must See Things!
Known as the mother of the pearl of Africa Uganda, southwestern Uganda has a lot to offer clients not to miss out on for the greater and memorable experience. The region host the most varied circuit anywhere in Africa, studded with national parks and other protected areas shielding a range of habitats that embraces everything from the snow capped glacial peaks. The frosty Afro-alpine moorland to marsh-fringed Rift Valley lakes and forest-swathed volcanoes – not some vast tracts of the archetypal African savannah. The southwest is Uganda’s top wildlife-watching region and one of the world’s best places to spot primates some of which are very rare and not found in many other destinations except the few. The very distinctive features to explore include among others:
The mountain gorillas
Found in the Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park in the Virunga conservation area, mountain gorillas are the best wildlife encounter in the whole world recommended for every traveler looking for a greater and memorable experience. South western Uganda is home to over 480 mountain gorillas in the whole world alongside volcanoes national park in Rwanda and the Virunga national park in the democratic republic of Congo. There are 13habituated gorilla families in Uganda with Bwindi having twelve and 1 in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The gorilla permit is sold at 600usd and travelers to Uganda have the greatest opportunity to see the mountain gorilla due to the available permit as compared to other destinations.
Chimpanzees
These are found in the Kibale forest national park also in south western Uganda. Trekking the chimps started as really as 1993 and is done in Kanyanchu village, the chances of locating them are excellent and the guided walks start at 8am and 2pm and last an average of three hours, depending on various factors. In the process of trekking the chimpanzees, travelers also look out for the black & white colobus, red tailed monkey or the grey cheeked mangabey and the many bird and butterfly species.
Game drives
These are done in the open savannah grasslands f queen Elizabeth national park. Travelers view a wide variety of wild anilams among which includes the elephants, buffalos, waterbucks, impala, Uganda kobs and bush babies. As travelers drive towards the southern section of the park, the ishasha sector, they are blessed to see the rare climbing lions which are not found in any other national park except Manyara in northern Tanzania. This is a real great experience as travelers see the big five as they hunt and graze, it is indeed memorable.
The volcanoes
There are there volcanoes in Mgahinga national park which include Mt Gahinga, Mt Muhabura and Mt Sabyinyo both in south western Uganda. Volcano hike/climb can take up to 8 hours and travelers need to have a clear climbing gear and should be physically fit. Each of these peaks has its own amazing view. No matter which volcano you choose to climb the ascent into the afro montane zone which has plants and vegetation covering you have probably never seen before is exciting and worth the trip and the effort.
Lake Bunyonyi
The second deepest lake in Africa with the depth that vary between 44m (144ft) and 900m (2,952ft), the lake is known as a place of many little birds and it lies in south western Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale close to the border with Rwanda. It is Located at 1,962 m (6,437 ft) above sea level, it is about 25 km (15.5 mi) long and 7 km (1.35 mi) wide.
In conclusion, therefore, southwestern Uganda is the best tourism destination with many natural, cultural and historical features all of which provide a great and memorable experience.
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